Introduction to Zaranda
Hugo Ortega, a James Beard Award-winning chef, is set to open a new restaurant called Zaranda in downtown Houston’s Norton Rose Fulbright Tower. This will be his first new project since Urbe debuted in 2021. Zaranda is part of Ortega’s H-Town Restaurant Group, which includes other popular restaurants like Hugo’s, Caracol, Xochi, Urbe, and Backstreet Cafe.
Concept and Inspiration
Zaranda’s concept is based on a world where California, both the state in America and Baja California in Mexico, remained united as one territory. The restaurant’s name comes from the wire basket used to cook seafood over an open flame. Ortega’s inspiration for Zaranda comes from the region’s agricultural bounty, ranching heritage, and abundant aquatic life. He wants to reimagine the region as one vast, natural expanse, without consideration of borders.
Menu and Cuisine
The menu at Zaranda features ingredients from both California and Baja California, including Baja seafood, legendary produce, and wines from both regions. It also showcases the immigrants who have influenced the region, including Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese elements. The menu is divided into sections such as Zarandeado, which features dishes cooked in a wire basket, and Del Rancho, which includes braised lamb shank, picanha, filet mignon, ribeye, or porterhouse.
Dishes and Specialties
Some of the dishes at Zaranda include Pescado Zarandeado, which is cooked in a wire basket and served with cucumber salad and tortillas. The restaurant also features seafood dishes such as roasted oysters with gochujang butter, tuna crudo with soy, sesame, and furikake, and tostadas made with smoked fish and scallop escabeche. Spanish-style rice dishes are also available, with options like confit duck and braised rabbit, seafood, or vegetarian.
Desserts and Drinks
Pastry chef Ruben Ortega has created some unique desserts, including the Erizo del Mar, a chocolate dish shaped like a sea urchin, and the Dólar de Arena, made with coconut mousse, almond praline, and candied nori. The restaurant also features a bar with a variety of drinks, including cocktails created by bartender Carlos Serrano.
Ambiance and Location
Zaranda is located at 1550 Lamar St and occupies a 7,000-square-foot space with seating for 180 inside and 50 on the patio. The room features floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto Discovery Green, a desert- and sea-inspired color palette, and a second-floor dining space called the Ballena Bar with room for 70.
Team and Hours
The Ortegas have assembled a talented team to lead Zaranda, including chefs Adrian Caballero and Paula Gutierrez, pastry chef Roxy Puga, sommelier Elvis Espinoza, and bartender Carlos Serrano. Initially, Zaranda will open for dinner, with lunch service to follow. It will be open Monday through Saturday.
Conclusion
Zaranda is a unique and exciting new restaurant that brings a taste of California and Baja California to Houston. With its innovative menu, beautiful ambiance, and talented team, Zaranda is sure to be a hit with foodies and locals alike. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, steak, or something sweet, Zaranda has something for everyone. So why not come and experience it for yourself? Zaranda is now open for dinner, and lunch service will follow soon.
